Warning over dangerous toys at East Devon market
Devon Trading Standards officers seize dangerous magnetic toys from Exeter market
PARENTS should be on their guard when buying for their children, warns Devon County Council Trading Standards Service today (Thursday).
It is warning parents after seizing dangerous toys at a local market in the Exeter area as part of routine checks at shops and markets in the run up to Christmas.
Officers routinely inspecting traders at a Devon Christmas Fair left with seven large bags of toys seized on safety grounds. A number of other items also appeared to breach trading standards legislation.
Of most concern was the seizure of “Clanger Magnetic stones” toys, which comprise of 12 very strong magnets packaged as a novelty toy. These have now failed safety tests.
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Magnets can cause internal injuries if they magnetise in the body after being swallowed by a child.
Soft fabric toys, including frogs, hedgehogs and toy dogs as well as small Santas also caused concern.
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When examined by officers, they were found to have easily detachable plastic eyes which could pose a choking risk to small children.
If you are a small business making toys and clothes for children or other products such as candles and home crafts, or you are you making and selling homemade food, then you may not be aware of the legal requirements that apply.
Devon County Council Trading Standards Service provides free advice and information to local businesses on all these issues.
Councillor Roger Croad, DCC’s cabinet member with responsibility for Trading Standards said: “Devon’s Trading Standards Officers carry out regular checks on the safety of toys and other goods on sale in the county but parents and carers still need to be on their guard as our recent exercises show.
Consumers should ensure they only purchase CE marked toys from reputable sellers and that any user instructions are carefully followed.
Market operators should also be vigilant and if businesses are in doubt about legal compliance, they should contact the Trading Standards Service who can provide free help and assistance.”
